Liverpool are looking to strengthen their offensive options for the new season under new manager Andoni Iraola, and they have now entered the race for a new target, according to reports.
The Reds have seen Mohamed Salah depart this summer after nine years at Anfield, and the club have identified RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande as their top target to come in, despite the Bundesliga club demanding over £100m to let the Ivorian depart.
But while Liverpool have already secured an agreement with Diomande, and talks are ongoing with Leipzig to find an agreement over a transfer, now they are eyeing a move for another forward to add to their options.
Liverpool Eyeing £60m Move for Fernandez-Pardo
Matias Fernandez-Pardo
According to FootMercato, Liverpool have now entered the race to sign Lille sensation Matias Fernandez-Pardo this summer.
Fernandez-Pardo, who has been described as 'explosive', enjoyed a fine season with the Ligue 1 club this season, registering eight goals and six assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.
A number of clubs are understood to be paying close attention to the 21-year-old's situation for this summer, and they are likely to be watching him closely during the World Cup after he earned a call-up to Rudi Garcia's squad.
But Lille are not looking to let him leave cheaply, and have now slapped a €70m (£60m) asking price on his head amid all the interest, as they look to ensure they maximise his value, and they believe he should only move on if they receive an 'astronomical' bid.
It's reported that Fernandez-Pardo is not against staying with Lille to continue his development for another year and is highly unlikely to push for a move. But Liverpool could be ready to make a push for his signature, as they look to strengthen after a poor season.
Liverpool Need Reinforcements
Andoni Iraola
Salah is gone, Arne Slot is gone, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate have departed too, and that means a major rebuild at Anfield is needed this summer.
Andoni Iraola is coming in and will need reinforcements in attack, with Hugo Ekitike ruled out until 2027 and Federico Chiesa also likely to be on the way out after two seasons of barely playing football for the club.
Fernandez-Pardo is unlikely to come to Anfield and be an immediate starter, but he has the quality to grow into a top attacker and it could be the type of signing that the Anfield club have made in the past that has come to fruition later down the line.
Arne Slot Related
Liverpool Reach Agreement to Appoint 'Elite' Manager
Liverpool are looking for an Arne Slot replacement.